Let’s take a look at some common areas that you might be losing efficiency, and how to prevent it!
Windows and Doors
Doors and windows are a major source of heat loss. Weathering can cause gaps around the edges that allow heat to escape. When the wind blows, more cold air may also come in. This creates extra work for your B&L Ott HVAC system and costs you more. Openings under the door, pet doors, and mail slots can also allow warm air to escape.
Thick curtains can help insulate your windows by helping to block the air. Keep the curtains closed during the evening and night. Then open them during the day so that the natural sunlight can warm your home.
You can use a draft guard to block air from escaping through the openings under doors. To stop air loss from pet doors, use rubber insulation and seal the frame with silicone. If you have a mail slot you can help block air by using a storm door. Another option is to block off the mail slot and install a separate mailbox outside.
Ceilings, Walls, and Floors
Ceilings, walls, and floors are three other major places where you may be losing heat. When insulating, one of your primary focuses should be the attic as a large portion of your home’s heat may be lost there.
Walls with a cavity can be insulated by injecting the walls with insulating materials. If you have solid walls, you will have to add insulation either internally or externally. For floors, you can install insulation or underfloor heating. Adding a rug can also be helpful. B&L Ott recommends hiring a professional to ensure that the insulation is installed properly.
Chimney
While chimneys look nice, they are not the most efficient way to warm a home. If the damper is damaged, your chimney may actually pull cool air in. This will increase your energy bills. Check your damper before winter begins and make sure it is sealed tight. There are also a variety of energy-saving accessories you can buy. Examples include flue sealers, doors, heat exchangers, chimney balloons, and inserts.
Furniture Blocking Air Flow
Furniture near your vents or radiator will block heat from circulating throughout your home. In this situation, you end up paying for heat you are not benefiting from. You may also end up with cold spots when the warm air can’t blow further into the room.
Air Ducts
Similar to furniture blocking your air vents, warm air can be blocked by debris inside of your air ducts. Over time, dust piles up in your vents. As the piles grow, the more air gets trapped in your air ducts. Again, you end up paying for heat that you are not using. B&L Ott offers duct cleaning services to help prevent this problem. You should have your ducts cleaned every 5-7 years.
Improperly Sized Unit
Having a unit that is too large or too small can also decrease the efficiency of your home and cost you more. A unit that is too small will end up working too hard and may leave your home unevenly heated. On the other hand, a system that is too large will turn on and off more often. Since HVAC systems use the most energy during startup, this process is inefficient. It can also decrease the lifespan of your system.
To ensure that you have the right unit for your home, contact the professionals at B&L Ott. We can install a new heating system for you or help maintain your current HVAC system. B&L Ott can help you maximize unit’s efficiency so you can save money while keeping your family warm.
